The search operations commenced after Henderson failed to return from his hike on July 9, raising fears for his safety.
American Hiker Missing in the Spanish Pyrenees Prompts Intensive Search

American Hiker Missing in the Spanish Pyrenees Prompts Intensive Search
Rescue teams are diligently searching for Cole Henderson, a 27-year-old American hiker who vanished in Spain’s Pyrenees mountains days ago.
In Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, Spain, efforts are underway to locate an American man who has gone missing during a mountain excursion. Cole Henderson, 27, last communicated with friends on July 9 at approximately 2 p.m., shortly before he intended to hike in the area. He notified them that he would be setting his phone to airplane mode, as per posts shared by friends on social media.
Henderson was reported missing after he didn’t return to Amsterdam, where he had been residing, for a scheduled flight back home. His last known location was near Mount Perdido, the third-highest peak in the Pyrenees. He had been enjoying a vacation in Spain and had recently participated in the Running of the Bulls festival in Pamplona.
Max Senoff, a close friend, indicated that Henderson parked his vehicle in Torla, a village adjacent to the entrance of Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, before commencing his hike. "We don’t know his exact route, but we believe he may have entered the park from the Torla side," said Senoff. Given the challenging nature of the hike, particularly during the ascent to the summit, officials classified the expedition as demanding yet not overly technical, manageable within a single day.
Search and rescue operations were launched by the Guardia Civil, Spain's police force, when he was reported missing on July 14. They have deployed helicopters and specialized search teams throughout Huesca province, which encompasses parts of the national park. Henderson's vehicle was located in a park's designated parking area, indicating he likely started his hiking journey there.
Inside his vehicle, a receipt for camping fuel, frequently utilized for wilderness excursions, was uncovered, suggesting he may have planned an overnight stay. The park, renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, features steep canyons and lush meadows, which attract numerous outdoor enthusiasts during the summer season.
Cole Henderson, who frequently traveled and was celebrated for orchestrating group adventures with friends, is remembered as an enthusiastic individual within his social circles. His vibrant social media accounts are filled with images from his adventures across mountains, national parks, and ski slopes. Senoff characterized Henderson as an “avid planner” who shared a detailed itinerary of his trip with friends prior to leaving for Spain.
“He is great at bringing people together and is a very social guy,” Senoff concluded, as the search for Henderson continues.
Henderson was reported missing after he didn’t return to Amsterdam, where he had been residing, for a scheduled flight back home. His last known location was near Mount Perdido, the third-highest peak in the Pyrenees. He had been enjoying a vacation in Spain and had recently participated in the Running of the Bulls festival in Pamplona.
Max Senoff, a close friend, indicated that Henderson parked his vehicle in Torla, a village adjacent to the entrance of Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, before commencing his hike. "We don’t know his exact route, but we believe he may have entered the park from the Torla side," said Senoff. Given the challenging nature of the hike, particularly during the ascent to the summit, officials classified the expedition as demanding yet not overly technical, manageable within a single day.
Search and rescue operations were launched by the Guardia Civil, Spain's police force, when he was reported missing on July 14. They have deployed helicopters and specialized search teams throughout Huesca province, which encompasses parts of the national park. Henderson's vehicle was located in a park's designated parking area, indicating he likely started his hiking journey there.
Inside his vehicle, a receipt for camping fuel, frequently utilized for wilderness excursions, was uncovered, suggesting he may have planned an overnight stay. The park, renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, features steep canyons and lush meadows, which attract numerous outdoor enthusiasts during the summer season.
Cole Henderson, who frequently traveled and was celebrated for orchestrating group adventures with friends, is remembered as an enthusiastic individual within his social circles. His vibrant social media accounts are filled with images from his adventures across mountains, national parks, and ski slopes. Senoff characterized Henderson as an “avid planner” who shared a detailed itinerary of his trip with friends prior to leaving for Spain.
“He is great at bringing people together and is a very social guy,” Senoff concluded, as the search for Henderson continues.